Importing a Car from Japan to the UK: Real Costs, Steps, and Lessons Learned
Introduction
A lot of people talk about Japanese imports, but when it comes to actually getting the car to the UK, things can feel vague or overcomplicated. I see many first time buyers asking the same questions, so I thought I would start a proper discussion thread that explains the process clearly and honestly, without sales talk.
Why So Many UK Buyers Choose Japan
Japanese imports remain popular for good reasons:
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Vehicles are usually well maintained
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Mileage is often lower than UK equivalents
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Rare models and special trims are easier to find
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Prices can still make sense if planned properly
The challenge is understanding the logistics, not the cars themselves.
How the Process Usually Works
From start to finish, the journey looks something like this:
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Choose the car via auction or dealer
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Confirm documents and export eligibility
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Vehicle is prepared and deregistered in Japan
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Shipped by sea to a UK port
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Cleared through customs and collected
In the middle of all this, shipping car from japan to UK is where most confusion and unexpected costs appear, especially for first time importers.
Shipping Methods Explained Simply
There are two main ways people ship cars:
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RoRo (Roll on Roll off)
Car is driven onto the ship
Cheapest option for standard vehicles -
Container shipping
Car is secured inside a container
Better for classics, modified, or high value cars
Your choice depends on budget, vehicle type, and risk tolerance.
Costs People Often Forget
Beyond the car price, people are often surprised by:
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Import duty and VAT
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Port handling fees
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Agent or clearance charges
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MOT and compliance work
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UK registration costs
The total matters more than the auction bargain.
Common Beginner Mistakes
Some issues I see come up repeatedly:
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Rushing into a purchase
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Ignoring auction condition notes
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Not confirming final landed cost
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Using unknown shipping agents
Most of these are avoidable with patience.
Let’s Hear from Others
If you have already imported a car from Japan, your experience could help others a lot.
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Which shipping method did you use?
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Any unexpected delays or costs?
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Would you import again or buy locally next time?
Drop your thoughts, tips, or questions below. This thread could become a solid reference for anyone thinking about importing their first Japanese car.
